The Journey Begins

I feel like I was born with the “performer” gene. My mom was a dancer and loved it. She used to think none of her girls would be in the dance world, but little did she know that I was just waiting for my ”unique” (aka goofy) personality to really settle in as a Senior – when in my opinion, no one will say anything to you for being different, because hey, you’re a senior! Right?! Ha.

I signed up to be the mascot at Madison HS and let me tell you, that was the BEST decision I made for my future. If I told you I signed up for this gig because I loved furry characters and wanted to be the next San Antonio Spurs Coyote, I’d be lying (three years later ask, YEPP definitely want to do that). Most mascots I meet are often those who literally LOVE all the furry things. I actually wanted to be the FUN, ENTERTAINMENT and JOY that was brought to my school. I had HUGE goals. I wish I could say that I remember making all of that happen + more, but I don’t. There’s a part of me that thinks I did, but we may have to ask my coach or Spirit Coordinator one day! Shout out to Coach Courtney and Mrs. Barrow for being true game changers in my life – both for different reasons.

I was asked to tryout for NCA Staff, after being the MIGHTY Maverick (I changed the character by the way because the thought of me being a boy, was super weird…little did I know I’d be exploring my male character in the next 2 years) for about 3 days. I remember crying when they asked me. And an UGLY cry – not cute when you’re around 40+ cheerleaders either ps. My life would never be the same after senior year, in so many ways… but mainly due to NCA staff. The world of cheerleading and the company created a second family, culture, trust and growth that I don’t believe I could have learned anywhere else.